2. amps-preamps
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Atmas-phere MP-3 MKIII --- opinions?

This is a follow up to my previous post:

I'm leaning toward the Atmosphere MP-3 MKIII to replace my current solid state preamp.

Preamp: Musical Fidelity M6PRE (to be replaced)
Amp: Musical Fidelity M6PRX
Speakers: Vandersteen 3a Signatures
Analog: VPI traveler turntable with Ortofon Bronze MM cartridge
Digital: Ayre CX-7 CD player

Lots of good reviews for the Atmas-phere MP3. But I'm also reading that the power and V-cap upgrades are essential, the phono section is noisy and the system is sensitive to power cord changes.

I guess I really want to get the Atmas-phere and am hoping folks here can share their experiences to help me decide. Or other comparable tube preamp suggestions?
evolving

Showing 4 responses by evolving

evolving OP
16 posts
 
I'm thinking:

Sutherland 20/20
Lehmann Decade
Pass Labs XP15
Allnic H 1201
Manley Labs Chinook
Parasound Halo JC3
evolving OP
16 posts
 
Thanks Clio09 and Bpd24. That all makes good sense.

I have quote for MP- 3 of $3,966 then it would $600 each for the power regulator and V-caps upgrade for a total of about $5,200. I'd also need new XLR cables, so probably another $300 on top of that.

So trying to decide if the Atma-sphere is competitive against other options at $5,200 to $5,500 when all is said and done....
evolving OP
16 posts
 
Well, ended up with a 3 month old Cary SLP-05 for just under what the upgraded Atma-sphere would cost. I think it's a good deal and I'm pretty excited to hear it.

Thanks to everyone for your feedback.
evolving OP
16 posts
 
I do realize that I'll need to get a phono preamp, which will bump it up over the Atmas-phere by a grand or two but I think I'm getting much more of a preamp with the Cary, at least IMHO.

Brf an anyone else: do you have recommendations given my setup for a phono preamp in the $1,000 to $3,000 range?
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